There's no denying that a regular skincare routine is important. However, it's not always necessary to apply layer after layer of products in a 10-step routine if you want a glowing and healthy complexion. With all of the products and routines available these days, it can be confusing to know where to start. Creating a minimal, 3-step routine might seem basic, but it could be just what your skin is looking for.
So, what's the problem with using too many products? Using a lot of different products, or even introducing new products too often into your routine, can actually do more harm than good. The more products you use on your skin, the higher the chance that an ingredient could be incompatible or cause a reaction. This can lead to irritation and breakouts, and reverse all of the benefits you've been getting out of your routine. If your skin does react to a product, a minimal routine with shorter ingredient lists makes identifying the irritating ingredient that much easier.
What if you have a large skincare collection but only use a few products at a time? Well, you might not be seeing the results you want. Real results from active ingredients take continuous, prolonged use. It might feel counterintuitive, but committing to 3 products that contain all of the active ingredients you are looking for can deliver surprising results when compared to using a bunch of different products sporadically.
You're ready to move on from an over-complicated routine, but where do you start? A 3-step routine is one of the most popular and effective ways to take care of your skin. It's quite simple- cleanse, moisturize and apply sunscreen. It's also a great way to design your first skincare routine if you're new to it.
Step 1 : Cleanser
The goal is to cleanse your skin once per day. Ideally you are cleansing in the evening to lift away the dirt, oil and makeup from the day before. Start with a gentle cream cleanser to avoid stripping away your natural oils while still thoroughly unclogging pores. Avoid harsh gel cleansers or exfoliators as these will break down you lipid barrier, causing increased irritations and breakouts.
We recommend the Clarifying Milk Cleanse to remove makeup, unclog pores and prevent breakouts.
Step 2 : Moisturize
Your moisturizer helps lock in hydration and maintain elasticity while helping any active ingredients be absorbed properly into your skin. Unfortunately these formulas are not a one size fits all, so it can take some time to find the right moisturizer for your skin type. As a general rule, you want a small percentage of oils in your moisturizer to maintain the health of your lipid barrier. Unless you truly have an oily skin type, you don't need to be using an oil-free moisturizer. You can up the benefits of your cream by using one with actives, humectants and antioxidants to help protect your skin throughout the day.
We recommend the Deep Hydration Face Cream to boost hydration, even skin tone and leave your skin feeling supple and soft.
Step 3 : Sunscreen
Last but certainly not least, sunscreen! If you don't wear SPF every day then please consider adding this step immediately. The rule here is whatever sunscreen you enjoy using the most, is the best sunscreen for you. Whether it is a chemical or mineral sunscreen, it is essential for every skin type. It doesn't matter if it is cloudy outside or if you are working indoors all day, UV rays are still able to cause free radical damage within your skin.
We recommend finding a sunscreen that you enjoy applying and will use every day.
Minimalism can deliver maximum results when it comes to skincare. The fewer products you use, the better off your skin will be. It's that simple! A 3-step routine is all you need to maintain healthy, happy skin. Another benefit of a simple routine is that it's easy to maintain. Remember to stay consistent and be patient, real results take time.
